Clutch device and motorcycle

Abstract

A clutch device (210) is provided with a pressure plate (270) capable of pressing an input-side rotating plate (20) and an output-side rotating plate (22). The platen (270) has: an annular portion (280); a base wall (273) positioned on the outside in the radial direction of the annular portion (280); an outer peripheral wall (275) that extends in the direction D and is closer to the outside in the radial direction than the base wall (273); a platen-side cam hole (273H) that is formed so as to penetrate through the base wall (273) in the direction D, and a plurality of ribs (244) that extend in the second direction (D2) from a surface (273D2) on the second direction (D2) side of the base wall (273) and that are connected to the annular portion (280). The plurality of ribs (244) are disposed so as to be spaced apart from the outer peripheral wall (275) in the radial direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clutch device and a motorcycle, and more particularly to a clutch device that arbitrarily transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of an input shaft rotationally driven by a prime mover such as an engine to an output shaft, and a motorcycle equipped with the clutch device.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-114262 filed on July 15, 2022 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-066658 filed on April 14, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated into this specification by reference. Background Art

[0003] In the past, vehicles such as motorcycles were equipped with clutch devices. The clutch device is arranged between the engine and the drive wheel to transmit or cut off the rotational driving force of the engine to the drive wheel. The clutch device usually includes a plurality of input-side rotating plates that rotate by the rotational driving force of the engine and a plurality of output-side rotating plates connected to an output shaft that transmits the rotational driving force to the drive wheel. The input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates are alternately arranged in the stacking direction, and the rotational driving force is transmitted or cut off by pressing and separating the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates.

[0004] For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a clutch device including a clutch center sleeve and a pressure plate that is arranged to be able to approach and separate from the clutch center sleeve. The pressure plate is configured to be able to press an input-side rotating plate and an output-side rotating plate. In this way, in the clutch device, the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate are assembled and used.

[0005] In addition, the clutch center sleeve and pressure plate of the clutch device of Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 include: an auxiliary cam surface, which generates a force in the direction of causing the pressure plate to approach the clutch center sleeve when the rotational driving force of the engine can be transmitted to the output shaft, thereby increasing the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotation; and a sliding cam surface, which causes the pressure plate to leave the clutch center sleeve when the rotational speed of the clutch center sleeve exceeds the rotational speed of the pressure plate, thereby reducing the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotation.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6894792.

[0009] Patent document 2: International Publication No. 2018 / 172176. Summary of the invention

[0010] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0011] In addition, the pressure plate of Reference Document 2 has an annular ring portion at its center. Since bending stress is applied to the annular portion when the clutch is engaged, a high bending rigidity is required. In addition, a through hole is formed in the pressure plate to guide the clutch oil from the outside to the inside of the pressure plate, and it is expected that the clutch oil can be effectively guided to the inside of the pressure plate.

[0012] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a clutch device including a pressure plate capable of ensuring the rigidity of the annular portion of the pressure plate and effectively guiding clutch oil to the inside, and a motorcycle including the clutch device.

[0013] Means for solving problems

[0014] The inventor of the present application has thought of providing a plurality of ribs connected to the annular portion in order to ensure the rigidity of the annular portion. However, if the ribs connected to the annular portion are extended to the annular outer peripheral wall, the flow of the clutch oil will be blocked by the ribs, and it will be difficult to guide the clutch oil to the inside of the clutch center sleeve through the through hole. Therefore, in order to make the clutch oil flow smoothly, it has been found that a gap is provided between the ribs and the outer peripheral wall.

[0015] The clutch device involved in the present invention transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, and the clutch device comprises: a clutch center sleeve, which is accommodated in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and a pressure plate, which is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be able to rotate relatively, and holds a plurality of output side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates, and is able to press the input side rotating plates to engage the output side rotating plates. The pressure plate comprises: an annular ring portion; a base wall, which is located radially outside the annular portion; an annular outer peripheral wall, which is radially outward of the base wall and extends along the moving direction when the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the second direction; a through hole, which is formed by passing through the base wall along the moving direction; and a plurality of ribs, which extend from the surface of the base wall on the second direction side along the second direction and are connected to the annular portion, and the plurality of ribs are radially separated from the outer peripheral wall.

[0016] According to the clutch device of the present invention, the pressure plate has a plurality of ribs extending from the surface on the second direction side of the base wall in the second direction and connected to the annular portion. As a result, the rigidity of the annular portion is improved, and the bending rigidity can be ensured. In addition, the plurality of ribs are arranged radially separately from the outer peripheral wall. Therefore, the clutch oil that moves to the outer peripheral wall side due to the centrifugal force when the pressure plate rotates will not be hindered by the ribs, and can move smoothly on the surface of the surface on the second direction side of the base wall. In addition, the clutch oil can be guided to the inside of the pressure plate via the through hole formed in the base wall.

[0017] Another clutch device according to the present invention transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, and the clutch device comprises: a clutch center sleeve, which is accommodated in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and a pressure plate, which is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be able to rotate relatively, and holds a plurality of output side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates, and is able to press the input side rotating plates to engage the output side rotating plates. The pressure plate comprises: an annular ring portion; a base wall located radially outside the annular portion; a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions, which are formed to protrude from the surface of the base wall on the first direction side toward the first direction when the pressure plate approaches and leaves the clutch center sleeve as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate leaves the clutch center sleeve as the second direction, and have a pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface, which generates a force in the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve when the pressure plate rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve to increase the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate; an annular outer peripheral wall located radially outside the base wall and extending in the moving direction; a through hole formed through the base wall in the moving direction in a manner located between adjacent pressure plate side cam portions; and a plurality of ribs extending from the surface of the base wall on the second direction side in the second direction and connected to the annular portion, the plurality of ribs being arranged radially separated from the outer peripheral wall.

[0018] According to another clutch device of the present invention, the pressure plate has a plurality of ribs extending from the surface on the second direction side of the base wall in the second direction and connected to the annular portion. As a result, the rigidity of the annular portion is improved, and the bending rigidity can be ensured. In addition, the plurality of ribs are arranged radially separately from the outer peripheral wall. Therefore, the clutch oil that moves to the outer peripheral wall side due to the centrifugal force when the pressure plate rotates will not be hindered by the ribs, and can move smoothly on the surface of the surface on the second direction side of the base wall. In addition, the clutch oil can be guided to the inside of the pressure plate via the through hole formed in the base wall.

[0019] Another clutch device according to the present invention transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, and the clutch device comprises: a clutch center sleeve, which is accommodated in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and a pressure plate, which is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be able to rotate relatively, and holds a plurality of output side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates, and is able to press the input side rotating plates and the output side rotating plates. The pressure plate comprises: an annular ring portion; a base wall located radially outward of the annular portion; a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions, which are formed to protrude from the surface of the first direction side of the base wall toward the first direction when the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the second direction, and have a pressure plate side sliding cam surface, which causes the pressure plate to leave the clutch center sleeve when the pressure plate rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate; an annular outer peripheral wall located radially outward of the base wall and extending in the moving direction; a through hole formed by penetrating the base wall in the moving direction in a manner located between adjacent pressure plate side cam portions; and a plurality of ribs extending from the surface of the second direction side of the base wall in the second direction and connected to the annular portion, and the plurality of ribs are arranged radially separately from the outer peripheral wall.

[0020] According to another clutch device of the present invention, the pressure plate has a plurality of ribs extending from the surface on the second direction side of the base wall in the second direction and connected to the annular portion. As a result, the rigidity of the annular portion is improved, and the bending rigidity can be ensured. In addition, the plurality of ribs are arranged radially separately from the outer peripheral wall. Therefore, the clutch oil that moves to the outer peripheral wall side due to the centrifugal force when the pressure plate rotates will not be hindered by the ribs, and can move smoothly on the surface of the surface on the second direction side of the base wall. In addition, the clutch oil can be guided to the inside of the pressure plate via the through hole formed in the base wall.

[0021] Effects of the Invention

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clutch device including a pressure plate capable of ensuring the rigidity of the annular portion of the pressure plate and effectively guiding clutch oil to the inside. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of a clutch device according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 2 It is a perspective view of a clutch center sleeve according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 3 It is a top view of a clutch center sleeve according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of a clutch center sleeve according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 5 It is a top view of a clutch center sleeve according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 7 It is a top view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment.

[0031] Fig. 9 It is a top view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment.

[0032] Fig.10 It is a plan view showing a state where a clutch center sleeve and a pressure plate according to an embodiment are assembled.

[0033] Fig.11A It is a schematic diagram for explaining the functions of the auxiliary cam surface on the center sleeve side and the auxiliary cam surface on the pressure plate side.

[0034] Fig. 11B This is a schematic diagram for explaining the functions of the sliding cam surface on the center sleeve side and the sliding cam surface on the pressure plate side.

[0035] Fig.12 It is an exploded perspective view of a clutch center sleeve and a pressure plate according to another embodiment.

[0036] Fig.13 It is a perspective view of a pressing plate according to another embodiment.

[0037] Fig.14 It is a top view of a pressing plate involved in another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Hereinafter, the embodiment of the clutch device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the embodiment described here is of course not intended to specifically limit the present invention. In addition, the same reference numerals are marked on the components and parts that play the same role, and repeated descriptions are appropriately omitted or simplified.

[0039] <First Embodiment>

[0040] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the clutch device 10 involved in the present embodiment. The clutch device 10 is provided in a vehicle such as a motorcycle, for example. The clutch device 10 is a device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of the input shaft (crankshaft) of the engine of the motorcycle to the output shaft 15, for example. The clutch device 10 is a device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the drive wheel (rear wheel) via the output shaft 15. The clutch device 10 is arranged between the engine and the transmission.

[0041] In the following description, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 of the clutch device 10 approaches and leaves the clutch center sleeve 40 is referred to as the direction D (an example of the moving direction), the direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center sleeve 40 is referred to as the first direction D1, and the direction in which the pressure plate 70 leaves the clutch center sleeve 40 is referred to as the second direction D2. In addition, the circumferential direction of the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70 is referred to as the circumferential direction S, and the direction from one pressure plate side cam portion 90 toward the other pressure plate side cam portion 90 (the direction from one center sleeve side cam portion 60 toward the other center sleeve side cam portion 60) in the circumferential direction S is referred to as the first circumferential direction S1 (refer to Figure 7 ), the direction from the other platen side cam portion 90 toward the one platen side cam portion 90 (the direction from the other center sleeve side cam portion 60 toward the one center sleeve side cam portion 60) is set as the second circumferential direction S2 (refer to Figure 7 ). In the present embodiment, the axial direction of the output shaft 15, the axial direction of the clutch housing 30, the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40, and the axial direction of the pressure plate 70 are the same direction as the direction D. In addition, the pressure plate 70 and the clutch center sleeve 40 rotate along the first circumferential direction S1 (i.e., the direction from the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of a center sleeve side cam portion 60 toward the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S). However, the above directions are merely directions determined for the convenience of explanation, and do not limit the setting method of the clutch device 10, nor the present invention.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, the clutch device 10 includes an output shaft 15 , an input-side rotating plate 20 , an output-side rotating plate 22 , a clutch housing 30 , a clutch center sleeve 40 , a pressure plate 70 , and a stopper plate 100 .

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the output shaft 15 is a shaft body formed in a hollow shape. The end of one side of the output shaft 15 supports the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 described later via a needle bearing 15A so that they can rotate freely. The output shaft 15 fixedly supports the clutch center sleeve 40 via a nut 15B. That is, the output shaft 15 rotates integrally with the clutch center sleeve 40. The end of the other side of the output shaft 15 is connected to, for example, a transmission (not shown) of a motorcycle.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the output shaft 15 has a push rod 16A and a push member 16B disposed adjacent to the push rod 16A in the hollow portion 15H thereof. The hollow portion 15H has a function as a flow path for clutch oil. The clutch oil flows in the output shaft 15, that is, in the hollow portion 15H. The push rod 16A and the push member 16B are arranged to be able to slide in the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15. One end portion (the end portion on the left side in the figure) of the push rod 16A is connected to the clutch operating lever (not shown) of the motorcycle, and the push member 16B slides in the hollow portion 15H by operating the clutch operating lever, pressing the push member 16B in the second direction D2. A portion of the push member 16B protrudes outwardly of the output shaft 15 (in the second direction D2 here), and is connected to the release bearing 18 disposed on the pressure plate 70. The push rod 16A and the push member 16B are formed to be thinner than the inner diameter of the hollow portion 15H, and the flowability of the clutch oil is ensured in the hollow portion 15H.

[0045] The clutch housing 30 is formed of an aluminum alloy. The clutch housing 30 is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape. Figure 1 As shown, the clutch housing 30 includes a bottom wall 31 formed in a substantially circular shape and a side wall 33 extending in the second direction D2 from an edge of the bottom wall 31. The clutch housing 30 holds a plurality of input-side rotation plates 20.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, an input gear 35 is provided on the bottom wall 31 of the clutch housing 30. The input gear 35 is fixed to the bottom wall 31 by rivets 35B via a torque damper 35A. The input gear 35 meshes with a drive gear (not shown) that is rotated by the rotation drive of the input shaft of the engine. The input gear 35 is independently driven to rotate integrally with the clutch housing 30 from the output shaft 15.

[0047] The input side rotating plate 20 is driven to rotate by the rotation of the input shaft. Figure 1 As shown, the input side rotating plate 20 is held on the inner peripheral surface of the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The input side rotating plate 20 is held in the clutch housing 30 by spline fitting. The input side rotating plate 20 is provided to be displaceable along the axial direction of the clutch housing 30. The input side rotating plate 20 is provided to be rotatable integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0048] The input side rotating plate 20 is a component pressed against the output side rotating plate 22. The input side rotating plate 20 is a flat plate formed in a ring shape. The input side rotating plate 20 is formed by punching a thin plate made of SPCC (cold rolled steel plate) material into a ring shape. Friction members (not shown) made of a plurality of paper sheets are attached to the surface and back of the input side rotating plate 20. Grooves with a depth of several μm to several tens of μm for retaining clutch oil are formed between the friction members.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 is accommodated in the clutch housing 30. The clutch center sleeve 40 is arranged concentrically with the clutch housing 30. The clutch center sleeve 40 has a cylindrical main body 42 and a flange 68 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 42. The clutch center sleeve 40 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates 20 in the direction D. The clutch center sleeve 40 is driven to rotate together with the output shaft 15.

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, the main body 42 includes an output shaft retaining portion 50, an annular base wall 43 located radially outside the output shaft retaining portion 50, an outer peripheral wall 45 located radially outside the base wall 43 and extending in a direction D, a plurality of center sleeve side cam portions 60 connected to the base wall 43 and the outer peripheral wall 45, and a center sleeve side interlocking portion 58.

[0051] The output shaft holding portion 50 is formed in a cylindrical shape. An insertion hole 51 is formed in the output shaft holding portion 50 for the output shaft 15 to be inserted and splined. The insertion hole 51 is formed to penetrate the base wall 43. An inner peripheral surface 50A of the output shaft holding portion 50 where the insertion hole 51 is formed is formed with a plurality of spline grooves along the axial direction. The output shaft holding portion 50 is connected to the output shaft 15.

[0052] like Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the outer peripheral wall 45 of the clutch center sleeve 40 is arranged at a position radially outward from the output shaft holding portion 50. The outer peripheral wall 45 is located at a position radially outward from the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The outer peripheral wall 45 is formed in an annular shape. The base wall 43 is located in the middle of the outer peripheral wall 45 in the direction D. That is, the outer peripheral wall 45 has a portion located on the first direction D1 side and a portion located on the second direction D2 side relative to the base wall 43. A spline fitting portion 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45. The spline fitting portion 46 has a plurality of center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 extending in the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40 along the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45, a plurality of spline grooves 48 formed between adjacent center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 and extending in the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40, and an oil drain hole 49. The center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The plurality of center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. A plurality of center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 are formed in the same shape. The center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 protrude radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the outer circumferential wall 45. An oil drain hole 49 is formed to penetrate the outer circumferential wall 45 in the radial direction. The oil drain hole 49 is formed between adjacent center sleeve side engaging teeth 47. That is, the oil drain hole 49 is formed in the spline groove 48. The oil drain hole 49 is formed on the side of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The oil drain hole 49 is formed on the side of the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The oil drain hole 49 is formed at a position closer to the second circumferential direction S2 side than the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The oil drain hole 49 is formed at a position closer to the first circumferential direction S1 side than the boss portion 54 described later. The oil drain hole 49 is located radially outward of the center sleeve side cam hole 43H described later. In the present embodiment, four drain holes 49 are formed at three locations of the outer peripheral wall 45 in the circumferential direction S. The drain holes 49 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The drain holes 49 connect the inside and outside of the clutch sleeve 40. The drain holes 49 are holes for discharging the clutch oil that has flowed out from the output shaft 15 into the clutch sleeve 40 and that has been guided from the outside of the clutch sleeve 40 to the inside through the sleeve-side cam hole 43H to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40. The clutch oil discharged from the drain holes 49 is supplied to the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 located radially outside the drain holes 49.

[0053] The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the spline fitting portion 46 of the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70. A portion of the output side rotating plate 22 is held by the center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 and the spline grooves 48 of the clutch center sleeve 40 through spline fitting. Another portion of the output side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure plate side fitting teeth 77 (see FIG. 1 ) of the pressure plate 70, which will be described later. Figure 6 The output side rotating plate 22 is provided so as to be displaceable along the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided so as to be rotatable integrally with the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0054] The output side rotating plate 22 is a component pressed against the input side rotating plate 20. The output side rotating plate 22 is a flat plate formed in a ring shape. The output side rotating plate 22 is formed by punching a thin plate made of SPCC material into a ring shape. Grooves with a depth of several μm to several tens of μm for retaining clutch oil are formed on the surface and back of the output side rotating plate 22. In order to improve wear resistance, surface hardening treatment is applied to the surface and back of the output side rotating plate 22 respectively. In addition, the friction member provided on the input side rotating plate 20 may be provided on the output side rotating plate 22 instead of the input side rotating plate 20, or may be provided on the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 respectively.

[0055] The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed into a table shape having a cam surface composed of an inclined surface constituting an assist & slipper (registered trademark) mechanism, which generates a force that increases the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, namely, an assist torque, or a force that causes the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 to separate as soon as possible and transfer to a semi-clutch state, namely, a slip torque. Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed to protrude from the surface 43D2 on the second direction D2 side of the base wall 43 in the second direction D2. Figure 3 As shown, the center sleeve side cam portions 60 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the clutch center sleeve 40. In the present embodiment, the clutch center sleeve 40 has three center sleeve side cam portions 60, but the number of the center sleeve side cam portions 60 is not limited to three.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the center sleeve side cam portion 60 is located radially outside the output shaft holding portion 50. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 includes a center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A and a center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A is configured to generate a force in a direction that causes the pressure plate 70 to approach the clutch center sleeve 40 when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the pressure plate 70, thereby increasing the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. In the present embodiment, when the above-mentioned force is generated, the position of the pressure plate 70 relative to the clutch center sleeve 40 does not change, and the pressure plate 70 does not need to physically approach the clutch center sleeve 40. In addition, the pressure plate 70 may also be physically displaced relative to the clutch center sleeve 40. The center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S is configured to cause the pressure plate 70 to leave the clutch center sleeve 40 when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the pressure plate 70, thereby reducing the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. Of the center sleeve side cam portions 60 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction S, the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of one center sleeve side cam portion 60L and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S of the other center sleeve side cam portion 60M are arranged to face each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 has a plurality of (three in this embodiment) bosses 54. The bosses 54 are components that support the pressure plate 70. The plurality of bosses 54 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The bosses 54 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The bosses 54 are located radially outward of the output shaft retaining portion 50. The bosses 54 extend toward the pressure plate 70 (i.e., toward the second direction D2). The bosses 54 are provided on the base wall 43. A space for the bolts 28 (see Figure 1 The threaded hole 54H extends along the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0058] like Figure 2 As shown, the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is located radially outward from the output shaft holding portion 50. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is located radially outward from the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is located on the second direction D2 side from the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is configured to be slidably fitted on the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 (see FIG. 1 ) described later. Figure 6 ). The inner diameter of the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is formed to have a fitting tolerance that allows the clutch oil flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 to flow relative to the pressure plate side fitting portion 88. That is, a gap is formed between the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 and the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 described later. In the present embodiment, for example, the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is formed to have an inner diameter that is 0.1 mm larger than the outer diameter of the pressure plate side fitting portion 88. The dimensional tolerance between the inner diameter of the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 and the outer diameter of the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 is appropriately set according to the amount of clutch oil to be circulated, for example, not less than 0.1 mm and not more than 0.5 mm.

[0059] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 has a center sleeve side cam hole 43H that passes through a portion of the base wall 43. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H is an example of a through hole. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H passes through the base wall 43 along the direction D. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H extends from the side of the output shaft retaining portion 50 to the outer peripheral wall 45. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H is located between adjacent center sleeve side cam portions 60. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H is formed between the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 and the boss portion 54. When viewed from the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40, the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps with a portion of the center sleeve side cam hole 43H. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H connects the inside and outside of the clutch center sleeve 40. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H is configured to guide the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 to the inside of the clutch center sleeve 40. In more detail, as shown in Figure 1 As shown by the arrow FS, the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 toward the clutch hub 40 flows into the interior of the clutch hub 40 through the hub side cam hole 43H. The hub side cam hole 43H communicates with the drain hole 49.

[0060] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 has a plurality of ribs 44 extending from a surface 43D1 on the first direction D1 side of the base wall 43 in the first direction D1. The ribs 44 are connected to the output shaft retaining portion 50. The ribs 44 are inclined in a manner that they tend to be radially inward as they proceed in the first direction D1. The plurality of ribs 44 are arranged radially separated from the outer peripheral wall 45. That is, in the radial direction, a gap is formed between the ribs 44 and the outer peripheral wall 45. The radial length L1 of the rib 44 is longer than the interval L2 between the rib 44 and the outer peripheral wall 45. As shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown, the defining surface 45K defining the center sleeve side cam hole 43H in the base wall 43 is formed flush with the rib 44. That is, there is no step at the boundary between the defining surface 45K and the rib 44, and they are formed integrally. Here, the defining surface 45K is a surface extending in the radial direction and in the direction D.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, the pressure plate 70 is provided to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve 40 and to rotate relatively. The pressure plate 70 is configured to be able to press the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate 70 is arranged concentrically with the clutch center sleeve 40 and the clutch housing 30. The pressure plate 70 has a main body 72 and a flange 98 connected to the outer peripheral edge of the main body 72 on the second direction D2 side and extending radially outward. The main body 72 protrudes in the first direction D1 more than the flange 98. The flange 98 is located at a position lower than the cylindrical portion 80 (see the figure) described later. Figure 6The pressing plate 70 holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates 22 arranged alternately with the input-side rotating plates 20. The flange 98 is configured to be able to press the input-side rotating plates 20 and the output-side rotating plates 22.

[0062] like Figure 6 As shown, the main body 72 includes a cylindrical portion 80, a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions 90, a pressure plate side fitting portion 88, and a spring receiving portion 84 (see also Figure 8 ).

[0063] The cylindrical portion 80 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 80 is formed integrally with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The cylindrical portion 80 accommodates the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 The release bearing 18 is housed in the cylindrical portion 80 (see Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 80 is a portion that receives the pressing force from the thrust member 16B. The cylindrical portion 80 is a portion that receives the clutch oil that flows out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0064] The platen-side cam portion 90 is formed in a table shape having a cam surface, which is composed of an inclined surface constituting an assist and slide mechanism that slides on the center sleeve-side cam portion 60 to generate an assist torque or a slide torque. The platen-side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude in the first direction D1 from the flange 98. Figure 7 As shown, the press plate side cam portions 90 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the press plate 70. In the present embodiment, the press plate 70 has three press plate side cam portions 90, but the number of the press plate side cam portions 90 is not limited to three.

[0065] like Figure 7 As shown, the platen side cam portion 90 is located radially outside the cylindrical portion 80. The platen side cam portion 90 has a platen side auxiliary cam surface 90A (see also Fig. 9 ) and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to be able to contact with the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A. The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to generate a force in a direction that causes the pressure plate 70 to approach the clutch center sleeve 40 when relatively rotating relative to the clutch center sleeve 40 to increase the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to be able to contact with the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to cause the pressure plate 70 to leave the clutch center sleeve 40 when relatively rotating relative to the clutch center sleeve 40 to reduce the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. In the platen-side cam portions 90 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction S, the platen-side auxiliary cam surface 90A of one platen-side cam portion 90L and the platen-side sliding cam surface 90S of the other platen-side cam portion 90M are arranged to face each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0066] Here, the functions of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 and the pressure plate side cam portion 90 are described. When the engine speed increases and the rotational driving force input to the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 can be transmitted to the output shaft 15 via the clutch center sleeve 40, as shown in FIG. Fig.11A As shown, a rotational force in the first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the pressure plate 70. Therefore, a force in the first direction D1 is generated on the pressure plate 70 by the action of the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. As a result, the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 is increased.

[0067] On the other hand, when the rotation speed of the output shaft 15 exceeds the rotation speed of the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 and a reverse torque is generated, as shown in FIG. Fig. 11B As shown, a rotational force in the first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the clutch center sleeve 40. Therefore, the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S are used to move the pressure plate 70 in the second direction D2 to release the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. In this way, adverse conditions on the engine and the transmission caused by reverse torque can be avoided.

[0068] like Figure 6 As shown, the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 is located radially outward from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side fitting portion 88 is located on the second direction D2 side from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side fitting portion 88 is configured to be slidably fitted into the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 (see Figure 2 ).

[0069] like Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a pressure plate side cam hole 73H that passes through the main body 72 and a portion of the flange 98. The pressure plate side cam hole 73H is located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate side cam hole 73H extends from the side of the cylindrical portion 80 to a position radially outward of the pressure plate side fitting portion 88. The pressure plate side cam hole 73H is formed between the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S of the adjacent pressure plate side cam portion 90. Figure 7 as well as Fig. 9 As shown, when viewed from the axial direction of the pressure plate 70 , the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side cam hole 73H.

[0070] like Figure 6As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 arranged on the flange 98. The pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 protrude from the flange 98 in the first direction D1. The pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 are located at a position radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80. Located at a position radially outward of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 are located at a position radially outward of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 are located at a position radially outward of the pressure plate side interlocking portion 88. A plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 are arranged along the circumferential direction S. A plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction S. In addition, in the present embodiment, since a portion of the pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 are removed, the interval of the portion is wider, but other adjacent pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0071] like Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 As shown, the spring receiving portion 84 is formed on the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The spring receiving portion 84 is formed to be recessed from the second direction D2 to the first direction D1. The spring receiving portion 84 is formed in an elliptical shape. The spring receiving portion 84 receives the pressure spring 25 (see Figure 1 The spring receiving portion 84 is provided with a boss portion 54 (see Figure 2 ) is inserted into the insertion hole 84H. That is, the insertion hole 84H is formed through the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The insertion hole 84H is formed in an elliptical shape.

[0072] like Figure 1 As shown, the pressure spring 25 is accommodated in the spring accommodation portion 84. The pressure spring 25 is held by the boss portion 54 inserted into the insertion hole 84H of the spring accommodation portion 84. The pressure spring 25 applies force to the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center sleeve 40 (i.e., toward the first direction D1). The pressure spring 25 is, for example, a coil spring obtained by winding spring steel into a spiral shape.

[0073] Fig.10 4 is a top view showing the state in which the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70 are combined. Fig.10 In the state shown, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A does not contact the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A, and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S does not contact the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. At this time, the pressure plate 70 is closest to the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0074] like Figure 1As shown in FIG. 1 , the stopper plate 100 is provided so as to be in contact with the pressure plate 70. The stopper plate 100 is a member that prevents the pressure plate 70 from being separated from the clutch center sleeve 40 in the second direction D2 by a predetermined distance or more. The stopper plate 100 is fixed to the boss portion 54 of the clutch center sleeve 40 by the bolt 28. The pressure plate 70 is fixed to the boss portion 54 via the stopper plate 100 by tightening the bolt 28 in a state where the boss portion 54 of the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure spring 25 are arranged in the spring receiving portion 84. The stopper plate 100 is formed in a substantially triangular shape in a plan view.

[0075] Here, when the pressing plate 70 contacts the stopper plate 100, the pressing plate side sliding cam surface 90S and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S contact each other at 50% to 90% of the area of ​​the pressing plate side sliding cam surface 90S and 50% to 90% of the area of ​​the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S, respectively. In addition, when the pressing plate 70 contacts the stopper plate 100, the pressure spring 25 is separated from the side wall of the spring receiving portion 84. That is, the pressure spring 25 is not clamped by the boss portion 54 and the spring receiving portion 84, and excessive stress on the boss portion 54 is suppressed.

[0076] A predetermined amount of clutch oil is filled in the clutch device 10. The clutch oil flows into the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70 through the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15, and then is supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 through the gap between the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 and the pressure plate fitting portion 88 and the oil drain hole 49. The clutch oil suppresses the absorption of heat and the wear of the friction member. The clutch device 10 of this embodiment is a so-called wet multi-plate friction clutch device.

[0077] Next, the operation of the clutch device 10 of this embodiment will be described. As described above, the clutch device 10 is disposed between the engine and the transmission of the motorcycle, and transmits and disconnects the rotational driving force of the engine to the transmission when the driver operates the clutch lever.

[0078] In the clutch device 10, when the driver of the motorcycle does not operate the clutch lever, the clutch release mechanism (not shown) does not press the push rod 16A, so the pressure plate 70 presses the input side rotating plate 20 by the urging force (elastic force) of the pressure spring 25. As a result, the clutch center sleeve 40 is in a clutch engagement state in which the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are frictionally connected to each other, and is driven to rotate. That is, the rotational driving force of the engine is transmitted to the clutch center sleeve 40, and the output shaft 15 is driven to rotate.

[0079] In the clutch engaged state, the clutch oil flowing in the hollow portion H of the output shaft 15 and flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 falls or splashes into the tubular portion 80 and adheres thereto (see Figure 1The clutch oil adhering to the cylindrical portion 80 is guided into the clutch sleeve 40. As a result, the clutch oil flows out to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40 through the drain hole 49. In addition, the clutch oil flows out to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40 through the gap between the sleeve-side fitting portion 58 and the pressure plate-side fitting portion 88. The clutch oil flowing out to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40 is supplied to the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22.

[0080] On the other hand, in the clutch device 10, when the driver of the motorcycle operates the clutch lever in the clutch engaged state, the clutch release mechanism (not shown) presses the push rod 16A, so that the pressure plate 70 overcomes the urging force of the pressure spring 25 and displaces in the direction (second direction D2) away from the clutch hub 40. As a result, the clutch hub 40 is in a clutch disconnected state in which the friction connection between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 is released, and thus the rotation drive is attenuated or stopped. That is, the rotation drive force of the engine is cut off from the clutch hub 40.

[0081] In the clutch disengaged state, the clutch oil flowing in the hollow portion H of the output shaft 15 and flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 is guided into the clutch hub 40 in the same manner as in the clutch engaged state. At this time, the pressure plate 70 is separated from the clutch hub 40, so the amount of engagement between the hub side engagement portion 58 and the pressure plate side engagement portion 88 is reduced. As a result, the clutch oil in the cylindrical portion 80 flows out more actively to the outside of the clutch hub 40 and flows to various locations inside the clutch device 10. In particular, the clutch oil can be actively guided between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 that are separated from each other.

[0082] Furthermore, when the driver releases the clutch operating lever in the clutch disengaged state, the clutch release mechanism (not shown) releases the pressure on the pressure plate 70 via the pushing member 16B, so that the pressure plate 70 is displaced in the direction (first direction D1) approaching the clutch center sleeve 40 by the force of the pressure spring 25.

[0083] As described above, according to the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the clutch sleeve 40 includes the plurality of ribs 44 extending from the surface 43D1 on the first direction D1 side of the base wall 43 in the first direction D1 and connected to the output shaft holding portion 50. As a result, the rigidity of the output shaft holding portion 50 is improved, and the bending rigidity of the output shaft 15 against rotation can be ensured. In addition, the plurality of ribs 44 are arranged radially apart from the outer peripheral wall 45. Therefore, the clutch oil moving to the outer peripheral wall 45 side due to the centrifugal force when the clutch sleeve 40 rotates is not blocked by the ribs 44, and can smoothly move on the surface of the surface 43D1 on the first direction D1 side of the base wall 43. In addition, the clutch oil can be guided to the inside of the clutch sleeve 40 through the sleeve side cam hole 43H formed in the base wall 43.

[0084] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the clutch center sleeve 40 includes a plurality of center sleeve side cam portions 60, which are formed to protrude in the second direction D2 from the surface 43D2 on the second direction D2 side of the base wall 43, and have a center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A, which generates a force in a direction (i.e., the first direction D1) that causes the pressure plate 70 to approach the clutch center sleeve 40 when the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A rotates relative to the pressure plate 70 to increase the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. According to the above embodiment, it is possible to generate a force that increases the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, i.e., an auxiliary torque.

[0085] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the center sleeve side cam portion 60 has a center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S, and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S causes the pressure plate 70 to leave the clutch center sleeve 40 to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. According to the above-mentioned method, a force that reduces the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, that is, a sliding torque, can be generated.

[0086] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the defining surface 45K defining the center sleeve side cam hole 43H of the base wall 43 is formed flush with the rib 44. This prevents the clutch oil from accumulating between the rib 44 and the surface 43D1 of the base wall 43 on the first direction D1 side.

[0087] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the clutch sleeve 40 is provided with an oil drain hole 49 which is formed to penetrate the outer peripheral wall 45 and discharge the clutch oil flowing out of the output shaft 15 to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40, and the oil drain hole 49 is located radially outside the sleeve-side cam hole 43H. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the clutch oil guided to the inside of the clutch sleeve 40 through the sleeve-side cam hole 43H can be effectively discharged to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40 through the oil drain hole 49.

[0088] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the radial length L1 of the rib 44 is longer than the interval L2 between the rib 44 and the outer peripheral wall 45. According to the above configuration, the clutch oil can flow smoothly along the surface 43D1 of the base wall 43 on the first direction D1 side while ensuring the rigidity of the output shaft holding portion 50.

[0089] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the ribs 44 are inclined so as to be directed radially inward as they proceed in the first direction D1. According to the above aspect, it is possible to suppress the clutch oil from accumulating between the ribs 44 and the ribs 44.

[0090] <Second Embodiment>

[0091] Fig.12 It is an exploded perspective view of a clutch center sleeve 240 and a pressure plate 270 of a clutch device 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0092] The clutch center sleeve 240 is received in the clutch housing 30 (see Figure 1 ). The clutch center sleeve 240 is arranged concentrically with the clutch housing 30. Fig.12 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 240 has a main body 242 and a flange 268 connected to the outer peripheral edge of the main body 242 on the first direction D1 side and extending radially outward. The main body 242 protrudes in the second direction D2 than the flange 268. The clutch center sleeve 240 does not hold the output side rotating plate 22. The clutch center sleeve 240 and the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 ) are driven to rotate together.

[0093] like Fig.12 As shown, the main body 242 includes an output shaft holding portion 250, a plurality of center sleeve side cam portions 60, and a center sleeve side fitting portion 258. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed to protrude in the second direction D2 from the flange 268. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is located radially outside the output shaft holding portion 250.

[0094] The output shaft holding portion 250 is formed in a cylindrical shape. Figure 1 ) is inserted and splined. The insertion hole 251 is formed to penetrate the main body 242. The inner peripheral surface 250A forming the insertion hole 251 in the output shaft holding portion 250 is formed with a plurality of spline grooves along the axial direction. The output shaft holding portion 250 is connected to the output shaft 15.

[0095] like Fig.12 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 240 includes a plurality of (three in this embodiment) boss portions 54. The boss portions 54 are located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion 250. The boss portions 54 are provided on the main body 242.

[0096] like Fig.12 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 240 has a center sleeve side cam hole 243H that penetrates the main body 242 and a part of the flange 268. The center sleeve side cam hole 243H penetrates the main body 242 and the flange 268 along the direction D. The center sleeve side cam hole 243H extends from the side of the output shaft holding portion 250 to the flange 268. The center sleeve side cam hole 243H is formed between the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 and the boss portion 54. When viewed from the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 240, the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps with a part of the center sleeve side cam hole 243H.

[0097] like Fig.12 As shown, the center sleeve side fitting portion 258 is provided on the main body 242. The center sleeve side fitting portion 258 is located at a radially outer position than the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 258 is located at a position on the first direction D1 side than the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 258 is configured to be slidably fitted into the pressure plate side fitting portion 288 (refer to Fig.13 ).

[0098] like Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the pressure plate 270 is provided to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve 240 and to be relatively rotatable. The pressure plate 270 is configured to be able to press the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate 270 is arranged concentrically with the clutch center sleeve 240 and the clutch housing 30. The pressure plate 270 has a cylindrical main body 272 and a flange 298 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 272. The pressure plate 270 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 alternately arranged with the input side rotating plate 20 in the direction D.

[0099] like Fig.13 As shown, the main body 272 includes an annular ring portion 280, an annular base wall 273 located radially outside the annular portion 280, an outer peripheral wall 275 located radially outside the base wall 273 and extending in the direction D (i.e., extending from the base wall 273 to the first direction D1), a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions 90 connected to the base wall 273 and the outer peripheral wall 275, a pressure plate side fitting portion 288, and a spring receiving portion 84 (see Fig.12 The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude from the main body 272 in the first direction D1. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude from the surface 273D1 on the first direction D1 side of the base wall 273 in the first direction D1. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is located radially outside the annular portion 280. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is located radially inside the outer peripheral wall 275.

[0100] The annular portion 280 is provided at the center of the main body 272. A through hole 280H is formed in the annular portion 280. The annular portion 280 is formed integrally with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The annular portion 280 accommodates the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 The release bearing 18 is accommodated in the annular portion 280 (see Figure 1 The annular portion 280 is a portion that receives the pressing force from the thrust member 16B. The annular portion 280 is a portion that receives the clutch oil that flows out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0101] like Fig.13 As shown, the outer peripheral wall 275 of the pressure plate 270 is arranged radially outward from the annular portion 280. The outer peripheral wall 275 is formed into a ring shape extending in the direction D. A spline interlocking portion 276 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275. The spline interlocking portion 276 has a plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 277 extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 270 along the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275, a plurality of spline grooves 278 formed between adjacent pressure plate side interlocking teeth 277 and extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 270, and an oil drain hole 279. The pressure plate side interlocking teeth 277 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 277 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 277 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 277 are formed in the same shape. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 277 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275. The oil drain holes 279 are formed by radially penetrating the outer peripheral wall 275. The oil drain holes 279 are formed between adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 277. That is, the oil drain holes 279 are formed in the spline grooves 278. The oil drain holes 279 are formed on the side of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The oil drain holes 279 are formed on the side of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The oil drain holes 279 are formed on the first circumferential direction S1 side of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. The oil drain holes 279 are formed on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. The oil drain holes 279 are located radially outward of the pressure plate side cam hole 273H. In the present embodiment, three oil drain holes 279 are formed at three locations in the circumferential direction S of the outer peripheral wall 275, respectively. The drain holes 279 are arranged at positions that are evenly spaced in the circumferential direction S. The drain holes 279 connect the inside of the pressure plate 270 to the outside. The drain holes 279 are holes that discharge the clutch oil that has flowed out from the output shaft 15 into the pressure plate 270 to the outside of the pressure plate 270. Here, the drain holes 279 discharge the clutch oil that has flowed on the inner peripheral surface 275B side of the outer peripheral wall 275 to the outside of the pressure plate 270. At least a portion of the drain holes 279 is provided on the mating portion 258 (see FIG. 25) on the side of the center sleeve. Fig.12 ) facing each other.

[0102] The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the spline fitting portion 276 of the pressure plate 270. The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure plate side fitting teeth 277 and the spline groove 278 by spline fitting. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be displaceable along the axial direction of the pressure plate 270. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be rotatable integrally with the pressure plate 270.

[0103] like Fig.12 as well as Fig.13 As shown, the pressure plate 270 has a pressure plate side cam hole 273H that penetrates a portion of the base wall 273. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H is an example of a through hole. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H penetrates the base wall 273 along the direction D. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H is located at a position radially outward of the annular portion 280. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H extends from the side of the annular portion 280 to the outer peripheral wall 275. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H is formed between adjacent pressure plate side cam portions 90. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H is formed between the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S of the adjacent pressure plate side cam portions 90. When viewed from the axial direction of the pressure plate 270, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A overlaps with a portion of the pressure plate side cam hole 273H. The clutch oil flows into the pressure plate side cam hole 273H from the outside of the pressure plate 270.

[0104] like Fig.13 As shown, the pressure plate side fitting portion 288 is located at a position radially outward from the annular portion 280. The pressure plate side fitting portion 288 is located at a position radially outward from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side fitting portion 288 is located at a position on the first direction D1 side from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side fitting portion 288 is formed on the inner peripheral surface 275B of the outer peripheral wall 275. The pressure plate side fitting portion 288 is configured to be slidably fitted on the center sleeve side fitting portion 258 (refer to Fig.12 A gap is formed between the pressing plate side fitting portion 288 and the center sleeve side fitting portion 258.

[0105] like Fig.12 and Fig.14 As shown, the pressure plate 270 has a plurality of ribs 244 extending from a surface 273D2 on the second direction D2 side of the base wall 273 toward the second direction D2. The ribs 244 are connected to the annular portion 280. The ribs 244 are inclined in a manner that they tend to be radially inward as they proceed toward the second direction D2. The plurality of ribs 244 are radially separated from the outer peripheral wall 275. That is, in the radial direction, a gap is formed between the ribs 244 and the outer peripheral wall 275. The radial length L3 of the ribs 244 is longer than the interval L4 between the ribs 244 and the outer peripheral wall 275. As shown in FIG. Fig.12As shown, the defining surface 275K defining the pressure plate side cam hole 273H in the base wall 273 is formed flush with the rib 244. That is, there is no step at the boundary between the defining surface 275K and the rib 244, and they are formed integrally. Here, the defining surface 275K is a surface extending in the radial direction and in the D direction.

[0106] As described above, according to the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the pressure plate 270 has a plurality of ribs 244 extending from the surface 273D2 on the second direction D2 side of the base wall 273 toward the second direction D2 and connected to the annular portion 280. As a result, the rigidity of the annular portion 280 is improved, and the bending rigidity can be ensured. In addition, the plurality of ribs 244 are arranged radially separated from the outer peripheral wall 275. Therefore, the clutch oil that moves to the outer peripheral wall 275 side due to the centrifugal force when the pressure plate 270 rotates will not be hindered by the ribs 244, and can move smoothly on the surface of the surface 273D2 on the second direction D2 side of the base wall 273. Moreover, the clutch oil can be guided to the inside of the pressure plate 270 via the pressure plate side cam hole 273H formed in the base wall 273.

[0107] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the pressure plate 270 includes a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions 90 formed to protrude in the first direction D1 from a surface 273D1 on the first direction D1 side of the base wall 273, and includes a pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A generates a force in a direction (i.e., the first direction D1) that causes the pressure plate 270 to approach the clutch center sleeve 240 when the pressure plate 270 rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve 240, thereby increasing the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. According to the above embodiment, a force that increases the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, i.e., an auxiliary torque, can be generated.

[0108] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the pressure plate side cam portion 90 has a pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S, which causes the pressure plate 270 to leave the clutch center sleeve 240 to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. According to the above method, a force that reduces the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, that is, a sliding torque, can be generated.

[0109] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the surface of the defining surface 275K defining the pressure plate side cam hole 273H in the base wall 273 on the second direction D2 side is formed flush with the surface of the rib 244 on the second direction D2 side. According to the above aspect, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of clutch oil between the rib 244 and the surface 273D2 of the base wall 273 on the second direction D2 side.

[0110] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the pressure plate 270 is provided with an oil drain hole 279 formed in a manner penetrating the outer peripheral wall 275 and discharging the clutch oil flowing out of the output shaft 15 to the outside of the pressure plate 270, and the oil drain hole 279 is located radially outside the pressure plate side cam hole 273H. According to the above embodiment, the clutch oil guided to the inside of the pressure plate 270 through the pressure plate side cam hole 273H can be effectively discharged to the outside of the pressure plate 270 through the oil drain hole 279.

[0111] In the clutch device 210 of this embodiment, the radial length L3 of the rib 244 is longer than the interval L4 between the rib 244 and the outer peripheral wall 275. According to the above configuration, the clutch oil can smoothly flow along the surface 273D2 of the base wall 273 on the second direction D2 side while ensuring the rigidity of the annular portion 280.

[0112] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the ribs 244 are inclined so as to be radially inward as they proceed in the second direction D2. According to the above aspect, it is possible to suppress the clutch oil from accumulating between the ribs 244 and the ribs 244.

[0113] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the above-described embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in various other forms.

[0114] In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the center sleeve side cam portion 60 has the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S, but it may have only one of them. Also, the pressure plate side cam portion 90 has the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S, but it may have only one of them. In addition, the clutch center sleeve 40, 240 may not have the center sleeve side cam portion 60. Also, the pressure plate 70, 270 may not have the pressure plate side cam portion 90.

[0115] In the second embodiment described above, the clutch center sleeve 240 is configured not to hold the output side rotating plate 22, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The clutch center sleeve 240 may also have a center sleeve side engaging tooth having a structure similar to the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 of the first embodiment capable of holding the output side rotating plate 22.

[0116] Description of Reference Numerals

[0117] 15 Output shaft

[0118] 20 Input side rotating plate

[0119] 22 Output side rotating plate

[0120] 30 Clutch housing

[0121] 60 center sleeve side cam

[0122] 60A center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface

[0123] 60S center sleeve side sliding cam surface

[0124] 90 Press plate side cam

[0125] 90A Auxiliary cam surface on the pressure plate side

[0126] 90S platen side sliding cam surface

[0127] 210 Clutch device

[0128] 240 Clutch center sleeve

[0129] 244 Rib

[0130] 270 pressure plate

[0131] 273 base wall

[0132] 273H Cam hole on the pressure plate side (through hole)

[0133] 275 Outer wall

[0134] 275K Defining surface

[0135] 279 Oil drain hole

[0136] 280 Ring Department.

Claims

1. A clutch device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft, the clutch device comprising: a clutch center sleeve housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and A pressure plate is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be relatively rotatable, and to hold a plurality of output side rotating plates alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates, and to press the input side rotating plates and the output side rotating plates, The pressing plate has: annular ring; a base wall located radially outside the annular portion; an annular outer peripheral wall, when the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the second direction, the annular outer peripheral wall is radially outward of the base wall and extends along the moving direction; a through hole formed through the base wall along the moving direction; and a plurality of ribs extending from a surface of the base wall on the second direction side along the second direction and connected to the annular portion; The plurality of ribs are disposed radially apart from the outer peripheral wall.

2. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein: The pressure plate has a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions, and the plurality of pressure plate side cam portions are formed to protrude from the surface of the first direction side of the base wall toward the first direction and have a pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface. The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface generates a force in the direction of causing the pressure plate to approach the clutch center sleeve when the pressure plate rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve to increase the pressing force of the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate.

3. The clutch device according to claim 2, wherein: The pressure plate side cam portion has a pressure plate side sliding cam surface, and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to leave the clutch center sleeve to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate.

4. The clutch device according to claim 3, wherein: When the direction from one of the pressure plate side cam portions toward the other pressure plate side cam portion in the circumferential direction is set as a first circumferential direction, and the direction from the other pressure plate side cam portion toward the one pressure plate side cam portion is set as a second circumferential direction, the pressure plate is configured to rotate in the first circumferential direction in the direction from the pressure plate side sliding cam surface toward the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface of one of the pressure plate side cam portions, A defining surface of the base wall that defines the through hole is formed flush with the rib.

5. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pressure plate includes an oil drain hole formed to penetrate the outer peripheral wall and discharge the clutch oil flowing out of the output shaft to the outside of the pressure plate. The oil drain hole is located radially outside the through hole.

6. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The radial length of the rib is longer than a distance between the rib and the outer peripheral wall.

7. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The rib is inclined so as to be directed radially inward as it goes in the second direction.

8. A motorcycle comprising the clutch device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. A clutch device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft, the clutch device comprising: a clutch center sleeve housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and A pressure plate is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be relatively rotatable, and to hold a plurality of output side rotating plates alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates, and to press the input side rotating plates and the output side rotating plates, The pressing plate has: annular ring; a base wall located radially outside the annular portion; A plurality of pressure plate side cam portions, when the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the second direction, the plurality of pressure plate side cam portions are formed to protrude from the surface of the first direction side of the base wall toward the first direction and have a pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface generates a force in the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve when the pressure plate rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve to increase the pressing force of the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate; an annular outer peripheral wall, located radially outward of the base wall and extending along the moving direction; a through hole formed through the base wall along the moving direction so as to be located between adjacent pressing plate side cam portions; as well as a plurality of ribs extending from a surface of the base wall on the second direction side along the second direction and connected to the annular portion; The plurality of ribs are disposed radially apart from the outer peripheral wall.

10. The clutch device according to claim 9, wherein: The pressure plate side cam portion has a pressure plate side sliding cam surface, and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to leave the clutch center sleeve to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate.

11. A clutch device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft, the clutch device comprising: a clutch center sleeve housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and A pressure plate is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be relatively rotatable, and to hold a plurality of output side rotating plates alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates, and to press the input side rotating plates and the output side rotating plates, The pressing plate has: annular ring; a base wall located radially outside the annular portion; A plurality of pressure plate side cam portions, when the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the second direction, the plurality of pressure plate side cam portions are formed to protrude from the surface of the first direction side of the base wall toward the first direction and have a pressure plate side sliding cam surface, and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to leave the clutch center sleeve when the pressure plate rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve to reduce the pressing force of the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate; an annular outer peripheral wall, located radially outward of the base wall and extending along the moving direction; a through hole formed through the base wall in the moving direction so as to be located between adjacent pressing plate side cam portions; and a plurality of ribs extending from a surface of the base wall on the second direction side along the second direction and connected to the annular portion; The plurality of ribs are disposed radially apart from the outer peripheral wall.

Images